where to start

[mik]

I have been storing my Spider for many years and it actually hasn't been started for probably 2 yrs. I have picked up a new battery and would like to start it up, but would like some advice as to what to do before I actually start it and where do I start on determining what it needs to be totally road worthy once again. Thanks in advance for any advice.

[narfire]

New fuel would be a good place to start. Not sure where you hang your hat,but condensation in the tank will eventually give you a pile of rust particles in there.The filter will take them out but would plug up quickly. If it is a fuel injected model there is not a filter before the pump and clean fuel/tank is manditory before the pump packs it in. To be honest I don't know if two years is a real big issue,but drain the tank to make sure and if there are any other issues you can rule out crap fuel.
You might want to replace the timing belt before long as well.
Good luck with the start up

[mik]

Thanks for the advice. The car has 66k miles on it and have replaced timing belt a number of years ago. Do you suggest to replace because of just sitting? Also, I believe I remember a plug at the bottom of gas tank, is draining adequate, or does more have to be done to the tank? Thank You

[narfire]

I'd just drain the tank and shake the car a bit at the same time. See if any crap comes out. I did'nt realize there was a drain cock on the tank, I had to undo the conection at the tank/filler hose this allowed larger flakes to come out. If there is crap/flakes then you would /could have rust issues inside. A few hours and a tank re-furbish kit(have to remove the tank) from a car parts store(napa)(here they are about $60.00) and you'd be good to go...one thing to cross off the list.
I don't know for sure about the belt and the time sitting but for the $30.00 I'd start with a fresh one(check the tension bearing at time of changing)
There have been members here that have started their cars up no problem after a while sitting,but I'd think a change of fuel after sitting would be a good thing. The fuel will also "varnish" up those small passeges in a carb or injectors and again you might have issues but one thing at a time... clean fuel/tank

[mik]

Good to know, I will be doing this evening. Most of the gas drained out due to ruptured filler hose, but a small amount still remained in the tank I am sure. It may take a little more than just draining the remaining gas, but that is where I will start. Thanks for the info on the kit.

[baltobernie]

I'd unscrew the spark plugs and put a teaspoon of ATF or 3-in-1 oil in each cylinder and allow to sit overnight. Then try spinning the engine briefly before putting the plugs back in. As others have said, fuel debris can take a lot of time and money to remove once in the system.

Once she's running, you're probably going to have to replace every moving rubber part on the car, from tires to windshield wipers. Fuel hoses and belts before leaving the driveway.

You can Google this topic as well as search this forum for details, price estimates and other cautions.

[mik]

Changing out belts, tires, etc is on the list. I have a lot of questions as to what my options are with wheels and tires. Thinking about the Panasport 14x6 15mm offset 185/60-14 from IAP, any suggestions?